Overview

• The Sustainable Building Helpline can explain regulations and good practice, how technologies work and how to choose them and what you need to do next to achieve your sustainable construction project.

• SBS has partnered with BRE (formerly the Building Research Establishment), to provide the Sustainable Building Helpline. BRE is an independent testing, research and consultancy organisation whose staff have technical expertise and an understanding of best practice across a range of sustainability issues in domestic and non-domestic construction.

Benefits

• Improve your understanding of the issues and requirements in sustainable building.

• Increase your confidence dealing with clients and suppliers.

• Pick up good practice and answer your questions about the following:

BREEAM & Code for Sustainable Homes • Environmental rating systems for buildings • How they work • What you need to know

Building Regulations - Part L / SBEM / SAP • Energy efficiency requirements for new and existing buildings • Energy calculations explained • What you need to know

Insulation & Air Permeability • Insulation good practice • Avoiding cold bridging • Tips for achieving airtightness

Building Overheating • Causes of overheating • Minimising the risk • Solving the problems

Sustainable Materials • Labelling schemes and claims • What to expect from suppliers • Things to look out for

Renewable Energy • The options explained with indicative costs and savings • How to find products and installers • Government incentives

Water & Sustainable Drainage System (SUDS) • Permeable surfacing and stormwater management • Water efficiency in buildings • Rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling

Construction Waste • Site waste management plans • Good site practice • Recycling and reclamation advice

Lighting • Lighting and energy efficiency • LEDs and other lamps • Lighting controls

Boilers and other building services • The options explained • Zoning and controls • Things to look out for